Predicting The Next 10 WWE Champions
9. Daniel Bryan (SummerSlam 2018)
The timing of Daniel Bryan's long-awaited first title victory since returning to the company at WrestleMania 34 won't be accidental. Just days away from his contract expiring to free him up to perform for any and every fee he wants on a thriving independent scene, WWE will dangle the carrot of an angle he's carefully curated even during the days he was officially considered retired.
He'll first dethrone Shinsuke Nakamura in a 'dream' match that will actually deliver as promised for the company's biggest event of the summer. With clear lines separating both men on either side of the heel/face divide, Bryan's plucky will to win in the face of Nakamura's threats to end his career again will lead to the crowning moment of his miraculous return - exactly five years after he lifted the WWE Title for the very first time.
Just like back then too, the reign won't be built to last...